The Wisconsin women’s basketball team is set to face off against the Iowa Hawkeyes this Sunday, March 2, at 3 p.m. CT. The game will take place at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, and fans can tune in to watch the action live on Peacock.
After suffering a heavy 30-point loss to the second-ranked UCLA Bruins, the Badgers (13-15, 4-13) are eager to finish the regular season on a high note. On the other hand, the Iowa Hawkeyes (19-9, 9-8), who are currently enjoying strong momentum with seven wins out of their last nine games, are looking to extend their winning streak against Wisconsin.
Wisconsin brings with them one of the standout players of the season, Serah Williams, who managed to score 22 points against the Bruins. Williams has been exceptional, joining the elite ranks of players across the nation, as she's one of only two players averaging at least 19.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game this season. Her performance will be pivotal for Wisconsin as they aim to outplay their rivals at Iowa.
The Hawkeyes have shown resilience, having been able to cope without star player Caitlin Clark. They recently posted a 79-66 victory over Michigan, with Lucy Olsen leading their charge, clocking nearly 18 points per game. Iowa's winning culture is evident as they seek to achieve their 30th consecutive win over the Badgers; the last time Wisconsin triumphed over Iowa was back on February 11, 2007.
Given the stakes for both teams, the atmosphere is sure to be electric. A victory for Iowa not only secures their place among the top teams but would also mark their 20-win milestone for the ninth consecutive season and the 16th time in the last 18 years. Meanwhile, Wisconsin desperately needs to salvage their season with at least one more win.
The hierarchy of the Big Ten tournament seeding is also influenced by this game. With nine games being played across the conference this weekend, sorting out positions is key. Currently, the ESPN BPI gives Iowa a staggering 96% chance to claim victory on Sunday. Despite this, Wisconsin remains hopeful. “The Badgers look to end on a high-note against Iowa after their loss to UCLA,” noted reports from The Gazette.
This match not only bears the weight of the season but also plays on the emotional strings as it marks the last home game for five Iowa seniors: Sydney Affolter, Addison O’Grady, A.J. Ediger, Kylie Feuerbach, and Lucy Olsen. Their contribution and leadership will be missed as they prepare to transition from college basketball to the next chapter of their lives.
From statistical matchups to emotional farewells, this game between Wisconsin and Iowa is set to be one for the books. Basketball enthusiasts are urged to tune in, as the intensity leads to the climax of the season. Will Wisconsin overturn its fortunes against Iowa, or will the Hawkeyes continue their dominance? It all sets up for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the regular season.
Our prediction leans toward Iowa, expecting the score to hover around 77-70.